Blue fin tuna

[regulator 26]

I am thinking of investing in a fly oufit to target bluefin tuna and was looking for advice regarding rods and reels. It seems that the reel, or the drag at least, is where the money should be invested. I have been considering the Lefty Kreh TFO series in a 14 weight (or should it be the 12?), but have been struggling with the reel. Any suggestions? Dave

[sage fly guy]

Go with the 14wt or you will be regretting it a lot sooner than later.

As far as reels, there are many fly reels capable of handling fish up to say 70-80#'s. Tibor, Old Florida, Pate, Abel and others. Be realistic in your assesment of your target size game fish, perhaps say one of the Old Florida Nautilus 12S could do double duty as also a Tarpon/Sailfish reel.

If your looking for a once in a lifetime purchase for a reel that will handle anything, your choices narrow drastically.

1) Henschel-Priced beyond reach of mere mortals, but the finest on the planet
2) Hayden 6-A tank of a reel capable of 40#'s of fish stopping power-under a G
3) Steelfin Abyss-Possibly the standard which all other bluewater reels aspire to, priced close to $1800, although can be found for almost 1/2

If you can still find a Charlton 8600, you may get a very good buy on it.

Consider the drag system of any reel for tuna to be of the utmost importance. With today's super braids, capacity is a non factor.


chris

[ikan besar]

You might consider the Charlton 8550 as well. I believe the currrent IGFA 20# tippet record for bluefin was caught on the 8550 with Tarpon spool. Although discontinued, there are still a few around.

[sage fly guy]

You might consider the Charlton 8550 as well. I believe the currrent IGFA 20# tippet record for bluefin was caught on the 8550 with Tarpon spool. Although discontinued, there are still a few around.


Mr Besar,

If you happen to stumble across said reel reasonably priced would you let me know.

chris

[ikan besar]

"reasonable" is a rather subjective term isn't it? ;)

I've heard of a few places still selling them at the msrp, and my pro-form from SA last year had a limit of four per person at a considerable discount.